Freelancer payments

Payment requests for freelancers: a safer workflow

Make the amount and purpose obvious, share through a trusted channel, and give both sides a status they can check.

Reviewed and updated July 16, 2026

Direct answer

A useful freelancer payment request names the work, states the exact amount, identifies the intended recipient, and preserves a separate invoice or agreement. A request link makes payment easier; it does not replace the underlying business record.

A five-step request flow

Describe the workUse a project, invoice, or milestone reference the client will recognize.
Set the exact amountReview the currency, decimals, and any agreed fees before creating the request.
Choose the recipientConfirm the client's email, account, or contact instead of relying on a similar display name.
Share through a trusted channelSend the request in the same verified conversation used for the project.
Track the statusKeep the request, payment result, invoice, and communication together for reconciliation.

Safety checks

The FTC recommends double-checking recipient information and independently confirming unexpected requests, even when a request appears to come from someone you know.

Before paying: verify the person and amount outside the request itself. Never share account passwords or one-time verification codes.

FTC: Mobile payment apps — how to avoid a scam

Where Kronos fits

Kronos includes flows for creating payment links and requesting money from another Kronos user. The app separates request details, amount review, sharing, and status so a user does not have to complete one long scrolling form. Settlement availability still depends on the recipient, account eligibility, location, and supported payment rail.